Analyse the data shown in Figure 3 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 2
Analyse the data shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3 shows data on outbreaks of locust swarms (a threat to arable farming), civil unrest, drought and famine against the bac... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse the data shown in Figure 3 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Analyse the Population Trends
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Answer
The population in Niger has been increasing over the analysed period, particularly noticeable after 1970. This rise occurs against a backdrop of considerable variability in rainfall, hinting that other factors might be influencing population growth.
Step 2
Rainfall Variability
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Answer
After 1970, the rainfall index shows a shift, indicating a tendency for negative anomalies. The significant drop in rainfall is particularly pronounced around the years of the locust outbreaks, which raises concerns about food security.
Step 3
Connection Between Droughts and Civil Unrest
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There is a notable correlation between the periods of severe droughts and instances of civil unrest. Data around 1985 indicates how significant water shortages contributed to societal instability. The persistent droughts lead to a higher average rate of civil unrest.
Step 4
Locust Outbreak Analysis
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The locust outbreaks appear to correlate strongly with the periods of drought, especially peaking during the 1960s and late 1980s. This suggests that environmental stressors have a direct impact on agricultural production and food resources.
Step 5
Historical Context
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During the peak years of famine, such as the early 1960s, data shows that population pressures were lower, enhancing the challenge of managing food resources, compounded by locust infestations. The patterns suggest a cyclical relationship between environmental conditions and population pressures, leading to crises when conditions align unfavorably.
Step 6
Identify Anomalies and Conclusions
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The period around 1990 is particularly striking, as the data indicates a simultaneous rise in population along with locust activity. This divergence suggests changing dynamics in agricultural sustainability, urging the need for strategized interventions in agriculture and resource management.
